Watsi

Ferdinand is a teacher and a father of two from the Philippines who needs $826 to fund gallbladder removal surgery.

55%

$459 raised, $367 to go

$459

raised

$367

to go

Ferdinand's story

December 2, 2022

Ferdinand is a father of two from the Philippines. He has one son and one daughter. Both he and his wife both work as public school teachers. Their income is still insufficient for their needs, however and, in addition to supporting their children, part of their salary goes to their medication for diabetes and hypertension.

In September, Ferdinand began to experience several troubling symptoms, including severe abdominal pain. He was rushed to an emergency room to be treated. The ultrasound test showed that he has gallstones. Ferdinand has been advised to undergo a cholecystectomy which is the surgical removal of the gallbladder. If left untreated, his symptoms will continue to worsen and will put him at risk of further health complications in the future.

After seeking treatment through our medical partner, World Surgical Foundation Philippines (WSFP), Ferdinand is scheduled to undergo a cholecystectomy on December 3rd. A portion of the cost of the procedure is being supported by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and WSFP is raising the remaining $826 to cover the cost of Ferdinand’s surgery and care.

“Because of my condition, I’m in constant pain which hinders me from doing my usual activities. I’ve tried to reach out for help to our local government but was unsuccessful,” Ferdinand shared. “I am glad there are foundations like Watsi and World Surgical Foundation Philippines that exist. I’m forever grateful for the help that you’ve given me,” he added.

Ferdinand is a father of two from the Philippines. He has one son and one daughter. Both he and his wife both work as public school teachers...

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Ferdinand's case was submitted by Abegail Joy Cervania at World Surgical Foundation Philippines.

Ferdinand's Timeline

December 2, 2022
PROFILE SUBMITTED
Ferdinand was submitted by Abegail Joy Cervania, Marketing and Communications Officer at World Surgical Foundation Philippines.
December 3, 2022
TREATMENT SCHEDULED
Ferdinand was scheduled to receive treatment at Our Lady of Peace Hospital in Philippines. Medical partners often provide care to patients accepted by Watsi before those patients are fully funded, operating under the guarantee that the cost of care will be paid for by donors.
December 6, 2022
PROFILE PUBLISHED
Ferdinand's profile was published to start raising funds.
TODAY
AWAITING FUNDING
Ferdinand is currently raising funds for his treatment.
TBD
AWAITING UPDATE
Awaiting Ferdinand's treatment update from World Surgical Foundation Philippines.

Share Ferdinand's story

Funded by 11 donors

Treatment

Cholecystectomy

Cost Breakdown
Diagnosis
Procedure

On average, it costs $826 for Ferdinand's treatment

Hospital Fees

$91

Medical Staff

$214

Medication

$91

Supplies

$284

Labs

$66

Radiology

$11

Other

$69

Symptoms
Impact on patient's life
Cultural or regional significance

What kinds of symptoms do patients experience before receiving treatment?

Symptoms of cholecystitis may include severe pain in the upper right abdomen or center of your abdomen, pain that spreads to your right shoulder or back, and tenderness above your abdomen.

What is the impact on patients’ lives of living with these conditions?

The inability to predict when an attack of pain would occur will lead to the patients’ feelings of uncertainty and worry. Decreases in function levels at home and at work are common. Some patients have significant weight loss due to the fear of excruciating pain arising after eating.

What cultural or regional factors affect the treatment of these conditions?

With surgical care becoming increasingly expensive, individuals with cholecystitis tend to put off surgery to focus on the daily needs of their family, which increases the risk for gallbladder rupture and other complications.

Process
Impact on patient's life
Risks and side-effects
Accessibility
Alternatives

What does the treatment process look like?

The gallbladder will be surgically removed.

What is the impact of this treatment on the patient’s life?

Patients spend two or three days in the hospital recovering. Once at home, it may take four to six weeks to fully recover. After recovery, patients can resume their normal day-to-day activities and without the pain they previously had.

What potential side effects or risks come with this treatment?

Complications that may arise include pain, fever higher than 38.3 degrees Celsius, vomiting that won't subside, foul-smelling or bloody drainage from the incision, or significant redness and swelling of the incision.

How accessible is treatment in the area? What is the typical journey like for a patient to receive care?

The care facility is equipped and accessible to handle this procedure for patients only within limited regions in the country, including the capital city. World Surgical Foundation Philippines programs are known throughout the country so patients come from within Manila and other regions.

What are the alternatives to this treatment?

Patients may resort to natural remedies, such as gallbladder cleanses consisting of a blend of fruit juice, herbs, and oil. Others may also use apple cider vinegar instead of proper treatment to help their condition.

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